Morton’s Neuroma

Neuromas are non-cancerous growths of the nerve tissue that develop in different parts of the body. Morton’s Neuroma affects a nerve in the foot, often times the nerve between the third and fourth toe. This condition thickens the tissue around the nerves that lead to the toes, causing sharp, burning sensations in the ball of the foot, as well as a numbing or stinging feeling. When consulting a doctor about this condition it may also be referred to as plantar neuroma or intermetatarsal neuroma.

Picture of Morton’s Neuroma

Symptoms for Morton’s Neuroma

The outward signs that are present in most foot or ankle conditions are not typically seen in patients affected by Morton’s neuroma, such as a limp. However there is normally a pain that affects the ball of the foot and may resonate into the toes along with the numbing of the toes. Pain is increased at first when participating in high impact activities or when wearing tight or narrow shoes. These symptoms may last for days or weeks before subsiding, however if the pain lasts for more than a few days it is important to see your doctor. You should also seek medical attention immediately if the burning pain in the ball of the foot does not improve with the use of more comfortable shoes and rest. Only a doctor can determine if the pain is caused by Morton’s neuroma, and early detection can give the patient other options besides surgery.The causes for Morton’s neuroma to affect the foot have not been identified by doctors. Irritation, injury and/or pressure on the nerves leading to the toes seems to trigger this condition, but sometimes patients who are affected by this condition have not experienced any of these. Other factors that can contribute to the appearance of Morton’s neuroma are wearing shoes that place pressure on the toes such as high heel shoes, prior foot injuries, and the participation in excessive high impact activities such as jogging and basketball. Other foot conditions can also lead to Morton’s neuroma such as hammer toes, flat feet, or bunions.

Mortons Neuroma Treatment

The severity of the symptoms will determine what treatment options are available. In most cases, rest, the change of foot gear, and the use of arch supports along with NSAID medication may be the first treatment option for a Morton’s neuroma. If the pain continues, typically corticosteroid injections and alcohol injections are used to see if any improvement is made before surgery is recommended. These shots can reduce pain and swelling in the affected area and help let the affected nerve heal. Alcohol injections are not always offered because of the limited research done on the affects of the injection on Morton’s neuroma. If other treatments fail and provide little or no pain relief, surgical removal of the neuroma may be the only option. Surgery has a high success rate in ridding the pain and removing the growth, however this surgery can leave the patient with a permanent numbness of the toes. This numbness is brought on because the procedure involves the removal of both the growth and the nerve or nerves affected by the growth.

Let Us Help You

Dr. Mechanik is Board Certified in Foot Surgery and Board Certified in Reconstructive RearFoot and Ankle Surgery. He has the medical and surgical skills to treat your foot conditions. He and his family are natives of the Denver area.

Dr. Mechanik received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree from the the Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine which is part of the Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, a national leader in medical education.

Dr. Mechanik then went on to complete a twenty-four month post-graduate Residency training program in Foot and Ankle Surgery and twenty-four month surgical Fellowship training program in Lower Extremity Musculoskeletal Surgery.

Dr. Mechanik is a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and a Diplomate, American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. He is Board Certified in Foot Surgery and Reconstructive Rear foot/Ankle Surgery.With his expertise in foot care, Dr. Mechanik can help you resolve any problems you may have that inhibit your mobility or daily activities. You can schedule an appointment by calling our office at 303-333-3383.